Introduce yourself

Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I am currently working as a Work Package Leader at
Akkodis in Toulouse, France. Over the course of my career, I have gained extensive experience
in both integration engineering and project management. In my role as a Work Package Leader, I
manage a team of three members, handling a yearly revenue of €300k for the Airbus Operations
SAS Modelling & Simulation Department (1YYSI). I am responsible for defining the scope,
budget, and timelines for projects, ensuring that we deliver high-quality results with a success
rate above 90%. Additionally, I regularly monitor daily activities, prepare weekly reports for the
Project Manager, and maintain a customer satisfaction rate of over 4.2 out of 5.

I have successfully led projects where I streamlined processes, such as improving onboarding
time by 17% through better documentation, process improvements, and automation. My
background in integration engineering, particularly in the aerospace domain with projects like
A320, A380, and A400M simulations, has further strengthened my ability to manage complex
projects, ensuring alignment with client needs and timely delivery."

Incorporating Project Management Skills:

1. Team Leadership: "As a Work Package Leader, I manage a cross-functional team and
ensure that resources are allocated efficiently, keeping the team motivated and focused on
meeting project goals."
2. Scope, Budget, and Planning: "I define the scope, budget, and timelines for projects,
carefully monitoring resources and timelines to deliver on schedule and within budget,
while maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction."
3. Process Improvement & Automation: "One key aspect of my role is identifying
opportunities for process improvement. For instance, I automated certain aspects of our
workflow, resulting in a 17% reduction in onboarding time for new team members."
4. Customer Satisfaction & Reporting: "I take great pride in maintaining strong client
relationships, ensuring that customer satisfaction remains above 4.2/5. I also keep key
stakeholders updated on the project’s progress with regular reports and meetings."
5. Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: "When faced with challenges, I focus on finding
solutions that meet both customer and business needs. My experience in system
validation and integration also gives me the technical understanding to resolve complex
issues quickly and efficiently."
6. 1. Can you discuss a time when you had to work alongside someone you had a
previous conflict with and how you overcame your differences to create a quality
product?
7. In one of my previous projects, I had a conflict with a colleague over how to approach
certain integration tests for the A400M project. Initially, we struggled to align our
perspectives, but we recognized that our differing viewpoints could provide an
 opportunity for a stronger solution. I proposed a series of collaborative meetings where
we could each express our concerns and work through the technical challenges together.
By keeping the focus on the project's goals and the quality of the product, we eventually
found common ground, integrating both of our approaches. This not only helped resolve
the conflict but also resulted in a more robust test process.
8.
9. 2. Have you ever felt dissatisfied with your quality of work? How did you try to
improve it?
10. There was a time when I wasn’t fully satisfied with the efficiency of our data production
process during the integration tests for the Single Aisle program. The process was taking
longer than anticipated. I took the initiative to automate parts of the process using Python
and C, which reduced production time by 13%. This not only improved my personal
satisfaction but also contributed to the overall team’s efficiency, enhancing the quality
and speed of our work.
11.
12. 3. Can you tell me about a time you noticed an issue at work and fixed it?
13. While managing the work package for the Airbus Operations SAS Modelling &
Simulation Department, I noticed that onboarding new team members was taking too
long due to inefficient documentation and processes. I recognized this issue could affect
team productivity. To address it, I streamlined the documentation process and introduced
automated workflows. As a result, onboarding time was reduced by 17%, allowing new
members to become productive more quickly, which ultimately benefited the team and
the client.
14.
15. 4. Explain a time when you felt like your workload overwhelmed you. How did you
manage it?
16. During a particularly busy period at Akkodis, I had to manage multiple complex
integration tasks for various projects while also leading a team and ensuring timely
delivery. To handle this, I prioritized tasks based on urgency and impact, delegated
appropriately, and maintained clear communication with both my team and the client. I
also ensured to set aside dedicated time for planning and coordination. By staying
organized and focused, I was able to manage the workload efficiently and meet deadlines
without compromising on quality.
17.
18. 5. Consider a scenario where a customer insists on speaking to a manager, but
you're the only person available. How would you approach this?
19. In such a scenario, I would first listen to the customer's concerns attentively, ensuring
that I understand the issue fully. I would then explain that the manager is unavailable at
the moment but assure them that I’m capable of handling the situation and that their
concern is a priority. If necessary, I would resolve the issue within my authority, or I
would gather all necessary details and follow up with the manager as soon as possible.
My goal would be to maintain professionalism and ensure the customer feels heard and
valued.
20.
21. 6. How do you schedule your days to ensure you meet your deadlines?
22. I manage my time by breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable components
and setting clear deadlines for each one. I use tools like Gantt charts and Power BI to
 track progress and monitor deadlines effectively. Additionally, I ensure I allocate time for
unexpected issues or revisions. Regular reviews of my schedule allow me to adjust
priorities when needed to stay on track with project timelines.
23.
24. 7. Have you ever disagreed with your manager about the best way to handle a
situation? How did that discussion go?
25. Yes, during a project I worked on, there was a difference in opinion with my manager
regarding the scope of an integration task. I believed that a more thorough testing phase
was needed to ensure quality, while my manager thought it could be done with fewer
resources. We had a constructive discussion where I presented data and past project
experiences to support my viewpoint. In the end, we reached a compromise that met both
quality standards and the client's timeline, reinforcing the importance of open dialogue
and flexibility.
26.
27. 8. How would you try to ensure you made a positive impression when meeting an
important client for the first time?
28. I would approach the meeting with thorough preparation, understanding the client’s needs
and the project background. I would focus on establishing rapport through active
listening, ensuring the client feels valued and understood. During the discussion, I would
highlight our team’s strengths, particularly in delivering high-quality, on-time results. I
would also ensure to communicate transparently and offer clear solutions to any
challenges they might have.
29.
30. 9. How do you respond when you aren't feeling motivated some days?
31. When motivation is low, I remind myself of the bigger picture and the impact our work
has on the success of the project. I break down tasks into smaller, more manageable
pieces, which helps me regain focus. I also take short breaks to refresh myself, ensuring
that I don’t burn out. Staying connected with my team and seeking their support also
helps me stay motivated and engaged with the project.
32.
33. 10. What's been the most challenging hurdle in your career and how did you
overcome it?
34. One of the most challenging hurdles I faced was managing the integration and validation
of complex systems, such as the A380 Simulation product, while also leading a team. The
complexity of coordinating multiple systems and ensuring alignment with the client’s
needs was daunting. I overcame this by developing strong communication strategies,
staying organized, and breaking down tasks into clear objectives. Over time, I learned to
balance technical challenges with managerial responsibilities, which ultimately
strengthened my problem-solving skills.
35.
36. 11. Imagine you had the task of creating a presentation explaining a project to other
team members. What strategies would you use to make the presentation engaging?
37. To create an engaging presentation, I would ensure it is clear, visually appealing, and
focused on key points. I would use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate complex concepts,
ensuring that everyone can follow along. I would also encourage interaction by asking
questions or posing scenarios for discussion. Lastly, I would tailor the presentation to my
 audience's level of technical knowledge, making sure to simplify any complex terms
without losing the essence of the message.
38.
39. 12. Consider a situation where you needed approval from a manager to move to the
next step of a project, but they're taking a long time to respond. How would you
approach this scenario?
40. In such a case, I would follow up with a polite reminder, providing a clear summary of
the situation and why timely approval is crucial for the project’s progress. If needed, I
would escalate the matter or seek alternative solutions that don’t require immediate
approval, ensuring minimal disruption to the project’s timeline.
41.
42. 13. Can you discuss a time when you received some sort of promotion and explain
what you think led you to that position?
43. I was promoted to Work Package Leader at Akkodis after successfully managing the
A400M project and consistently exceeding expectations in both technical and leadership
aspects. I believe my ability to deliver high-quality results under pressure, streamline
processes, and lead a team effectively were key factors that led to this promotion.
44.
45. 14. Tell me about a time at work when you felt under pressure. How did you handle
it?
46. During a critical project deadline for the Single Aisle program, there was an unexpected
technical issue that threatened to delay the delivery. I managed the pressure by breaking
down the problem into smaller parts, coordinating with my team, and focusing on
immediate solutions. I also maintained open communication with the client, keeping
them updated and managing expectations. By staying calm and organized, we resolved
the issue and delivered on time.
47.
48. 15. Have you ever turned in work you knew wasn't up to your standards? How did
you handle that situation?
49. There was one instance where a report I prepared had some minor formatting issues.
While the technical content was solid, I felt the presentation could have been better. I
immediately reviewed the report before submitting it and made corrections. I also set up a
system to ensure future reports adhered to a higher standard of quality. I communicated
the issue with my manager, acknowledging it and emphasizing my commitment to
delivering better quality next time.
50.
51. 16. How do you prioritize your work when you have multiple high-priority tasks in
your queue?
52. I prioritize tasks by assessing their impact on the overall project and client deadlines. I
use project management tools like Gantt charts to visualize the timeline and adjust as
necessary. I also break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable components and
delegate responsibilities where appropriate. Open communication with the team ensures
we all stay aligned and focused on critical tasks.
53.
54. 17. What do you think is the best way to explain complex topics to team members or
clients who don't understand the technical details of the project?
55. I would simplify the explanation by focusing on the high-level goals and benefits,
avoiding jargon. I use visual aids like diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate the key
concepts and relate the technical aspects to real-world scenarios or the client’s objectives.
Encouraging questions and feedback also helps ensure the audience grasps the key points.
56.
57. 18. An irritated customer demands an impossible request. What steps do you take to
appease them?
58. I would listen to the customer’s concerns, empathize with their frustration, and
acknowledge the issue. Then, I would explain the limitations of the request in a respectful
way, offering alternative solutions that might meet their needs. My goal would be to
maintain professionalism while ensuring the customer understands the situation.
59.
60. 19. Can you discuss a time when collaboration in the workplace resulted in
impressive innovation?
61. During the integration phase for the A380 Simulation product, my team collaborated with
a cross-functional group to streamline the validation process. By combining our technical
expertise with the client’s feedback, we were able to develop a more efficient and
automated testing approach. This collaboration led to a 13% reduction in production time
and improved the overall quality of the product.
62.
63. 20. How do you respond when a client changes their mind about something without
discussing it with you first?
64. I would first seek to understand the reason behind the change and its impact on the
project. I would then work with the client to find a solution that aligns with their new
requirements while ensuring the feasibility of the change within the existing timeline and
budget. Open communication and flexibility are key in these situations.
65.
66. 21. What do you do to ensure you and your team members communicate effectively
during projects?
67. I foster open communication by holding regular meetings to discuss progress, challenges,
and updates. I encourage transparency, where team members feel comfortable sharing
issues and suggestions. Using collaboration tools like shared documents and project
management software helps us stay aligned and ensure everyone is on the same page.
68.
69. 22. Have you been in a situation where you were waiting on another team member
to finish their part of a project shortly before its deadline? How did you handle it?
70. In such cases, I would proactively check in with the team member to understand any
challenges they’re facing and offer support where needed. I would also communicate
with the project manager to adjust timelines or redistribute tasks if necessary. My focus
would be on ensuring the project stays on track without sacrificing quality.
71.
72. 23. What was your most successful presentation, and what did you do to ensure it
went well?
73. My most successful presentation was to an important client explaining the integration
results for the A380 project. To ensure its success, I made sure to tailor the presentation
to the client’s needs, focusing on the outcomes and benefits they would care about. I used
 clear visuals and kept the language simple and engaging. I also made time for questions,
ensuring that the client felt involved and heard.
74.
75. 24. You notice a colleague is acting inappropriately in the workplace, specifically
toward a coworker. What action do you take?
76. I would address the situation privately with the colleague involved, expressing my
concerns and giving them the opportunity to explain their actions. If the behavior
continues or escalates, I would escalate the matter to HR to ensure a professional and
respectful work environment.
77.
78. 25. Consider a scenario where your workplace switches to an entirely new online
management system on short notice. What steps do you take to ensure you're
qualified to work with the new program?
79. I would take the initiative to review any training materials provided and ask colleagues or
supervisors for guidance on the new system. I would also set aside time to explore the
software on my own and practice using it until I felt confident. If necessary, I would
request additional training or support to ensure a smooth transition.
80.
81. 26. Can you provide an example of a time you had to think quickly to solve a
workplace issue?
82. During an integration test for the Single Aisle program, we encountered a system failure
that threatened to delay the project. I quickly assessed the situation, identified the root
cause, and worked with my team to implement a temporary fix while continuing to
troubleshoot. By thinking on my feet, we were able to maintain our progress and
minimize the delay.

How long have you worked as a software project manager?

I have worked in leadership and project management roles since July 2022, when I became a
Work Package Leader at Akkodis. I manage a team, oversee project planning, budgeting, and
ensure successful project delivery. Prior to this, I was deeply involved in technical project
aspects, but my role evolved into project management as I took on greater responsibility for
project scope and deliverables.

2. Can you briefly describe your career path up to now?

I started as an Integration Engineer at Akkodis in 2020, working on multi-system Integration,

Validation, and Verification (IV&V) for projects like A320, A380, and A400M. In my role, I
was responsible for automating processes, writing technical documents, and ensuring product
quality through detailed verification processes. As my experience grew, I transitioned into a
Work Package Leader position in 2022, where I now manage a team, oversee project scope,
budgets, and ensure on-time, high-quality deliveries for Airbus projects.
3. Describe an unexpected challenge that you encountered during a project and
how you overcame it.

One of the key challenges I faced was managing project timelines while maintaining high-quality
standards for the A400M project, where various integration and testing activities were being
conducted across multiple systems. The integration of new systems with existing ones caused
unforeseen delays, putting our timeline at risk. I tackled this by restructuring the team’s
workflow, implementing daily stand-ups, and automating specific data production processes
using Python, reducing the production time by 13%. This allowed us to meet deadlines while
maintaining quality.

4. How do you manage a client's expectation for timelines?

Managing client expectations is crucial, and I focus on clear, proactive communication. I ensure
clients understand potential risks early on and provide regular updates on project status through
weekly reports and scheduled meetings. For instance, while working on the Airbus 1YYSI
project, I ensured that timelines were realistic and communicated progress effectively to
maintain a high level of client satisfaction.

5. How do you stay organised at work?

I stay organized by using tools like Gantt Charts for project timelines and Power BI for progress
tracking. This helps me visualize tasks, allocate resources effectively, and monitor project
milestones. Additionally, maintaining detailed technical documentation and structured
communication with my team ensures that everyone is aligned and organized.

6. What are your most and least favourite stages of a software development
project?

My most favourite stage is the planning and scope definition phase, where I can outline the
project objectives and map out a clear path for delivery. It’s rewarding to ensure that the project
has a well-structured foundation. The least favourite stage is debugging and troubleshooting, as it
can often be time-consuming. However, this is also the stage where problem-solving skills are
crucial, and I enjoy resolving complex issues.

7. Why did you leave your previous position?

I transitioned from an Integration Engineer role to a Work Package Leader position at Akkodis to
take on more leadership responsibilities. This allowed me to apply my technical knowledge in a
broader, strategic context and further develop my project management skills.

8. What do you hope you achieve at this company in the next year, two years, and
five years?
In the next year, I aim to further refine my leadership skills and achieve even higher customer
satisfaction rates by optimizing team workflows. In two years, I hope to take on larger projects
with greater responsibility, and in five years, I envision myself leading cross-functional teams
and driving strategic initiatives that positively impact the company’s growth.

9. Describe an example of conflict resolution between yourself and a member of

your team.

A conflict arose when a team member was not meeting deadlines, affecting the overall project. I
addressed the situation by having a one-on-one conversation to understand the underlying issues,
offering support, and adjusting workloads. This open communication helped resolve the conflict
and improved the team member’s performance, allowing us to meet project goals.

10. How do you stay up to date with software developments and trends?

I stay up-to-date by participating in industry webinars, reading relevant technical publications,

and collaborating with my peers at Akkodis. I also follow updates on technologies such as
Python, C++, and Jenkins to ensure my skills remain current.

11. What hobbies or personal interests do you have?

Outside of work, I enjoy playing strategy games, which help me refine my problem-solving and
decision-making skills. I also enjoy hiking and reading, particularly books on leadership and
personal development.

12. What is your greatest strength as a software project manager?

My greatest strength is my ability to balance technical expertise with leadership. I can clearly
communicate with both the development team and clients, making complex technical details
accessible to non-technical stakeholders. Additionally, my focus on automation and process
improvement helps ensure project efficiency.

13. How do you stimulate productivity in unmotivated teammates?

I focus on providing clear goals and acknowledging team members’ contributions. I ensure that
every member understands the importance of their role in the project’s success, and I provide
opportunities for skill development. By setting small milestones and celebrating achievements, I
keep the team motivated.

14. What hard skills do you bring to software project roles?

I bring strong technical skills in Python, C++, and Linux, as well as experience with tools like
Scade/SAO, Jenkins, and Tortoise SVN. These allow me to understand the technical
complexities of the projects while leading the team effectively.
15. Describe a time when you had to use problem-solving skills to resolve an
issue.

During the A400M project, an integration issue between two subsystems caused delays. I led the
team in identifying the root cause, which was a mismatch in data communication protocols. I
facilitated cross-team collaboration to address the issue, and we developed a workaround that
kept the project on track.

. Do you have any experience managing a remote team? How did you keep
everyone on schedule?

While I have primarily worked in onsite roles, I have had the experience of collaborating with
remote teams as part of global projects. To ensure everyone stayed on schedule, I utilized project
management tools like Gantt charts for clear timeline visualization and maintained consistent
communication through weekly virtual meetings. I also used collaboration tools like Power BI to
track progress and resolve any blockers quickly, ensuring transparency and accountability across
the team.

2. Can you describe your educational background and how that has helped your
career?

I have a strong technical background in engineering, which has been fundamental in my role as
an Integration Engineer and Work Package Leader. My education provided me with a solid
foundation in software development and system integration, which I applied directly to projects
like A320, A380, and A400M. This technical knowledge enables me to bridge the gap between
the engineering team and project management, making me more effective in both leading and
understanding the technical aspects of the projects.

3. What do you know about this company and its products, leaders, and history?

Akkodis is a leading provider of digital transformation and engineering solutions, specializing in

complex product development for various industries, including aerospace and automotive. The
company prides itself on delivering high-quality, innovative solutions to clients like Airbus,
which I’ve had the opportunity to work with closely. The leadership at Akkodis emphasizes
continuous improvement, collaboration, and a customer-centric approach to ensure project
success.

4. Which software project are you most proud of completing and why?

The project I am most proud of is the integration and validation of the A400M systems for
ATA22 (FMCDS) and ATA27 (CGIB), among others. This project required managing complex
systems integration across multiple departments and ensuring that the verification and validation
processes were precise. The success of this project not only validated our technical capabilities
but also demonstrated my ability to manage large-scale projects with high levels of coordination
and attention to detail.
5. How would your previous team describe your software project management
style?

My previous team would likely describe my management style as collaborative, structured, and
results-oriented. I believe in open communication, clear goal-setting, and regular feedback. I
empower my team by giving them autonomy while providing the support and guidance they need
to succeed. I also value adaptability and am always open to suggestions for improvement, which
helps foster a positive and efficient work environment.

6. With which software tools do you have the most experience?

I have extensive experience with a variety of project management and software development
tools, including Gantt charts, Power BI, Jenkins, Tortoise SVN, and Scade/SAO. I also use
Python and C++ for automation and testing, which have significantly improved the efficiency of
our development processes. These tools enable me to track project progress, communicate
effectively with the team, and streamline development workflows.

7. Have you ever had a project go over or under budget? Why?

Yes, there was a situation in a previous project where we were slightly over budget due to
unexpected integration complexities during the A400M systems validation. We had to allocate
more resources to address the issues, which extended the timeline. However, I managed the
situation by adjusting our resource allocation and finding ways to streamline some tasks,
allowing us to bring the project back on track without significant cost overruns.

8. What is the biggest project team you have ever managed?

The biggest project team I’ve managed was during my tenure as a Work Package Leader at
Akkodis, where I led a team of 3 engineers responsible for a yearly revenue of €300k. While the
team size was relatively small, the complexity of the project and the tight deadlines required
effective coordination, communication, and leadership to meet deliverables and client
expectations.

9. Can you describe a lesson you have learnt from a past failure as a software
engineer or project manager?

One lesson I learned was the importance of risk management and contingency planning. Early in
my career, I underestimated the time and resources required for system integration, which led to
delays. Since then, I’ve always prioritized thorough planning, frequent risk assessments, and
constant communication with stakeholders to ensure that potential issues are identified early and
addressed before they become major problems.

10. Have you ever had a client request drastic changes to a project plan? How
did you handle this?
Yes, during the A380 A/C0 Simulation product project, the client requested significant changes
to the scope of the integration process, which threatened to impact both the timeline and budget.
I handled the situation by holding a meeting with the client to discuss the feasibility of the
changes, assessing the impact on the project, and providing them with alternative solutions.
Through transparent communication, we were able to adjust the project plan while still meeting
key objectives.

11. What project management tools do you find the most helpful?

I find Gantt charts and Power BI particularly useful for visualizing project timelines and tracking
progress. Gantt charts help break down the project into manageable tasks, while Power BI
provides real-time insights into project metrics, helping me monitor team productivity and
resource allocation.

12. Describe your process for testing new software.

My process for testing new software involves a combination of unit testing, integration testing,
and system testing. I begin by developing a detailed test plan, identifying key scenarios, and
ensuring all critical components are thoroughly tested. Automation plays a key role in this
process, especially for repetitive tasks, as it reduces human error and improves efficiency.

13. How do you maintain effective communication between project leaders?

Effective communication between project leaders is maintained through regular status meetings,
where we align on project milestones, risks, and timelines. Additionally, using collaborative
tools like Power BI and shared documentation ensures transparency across all levels of the
project, so everyone is on the same page and informed.

14. How do you maintain the productivity and motivation of your project team?

I keep my team motivated by setting clear goals, recognizing achievements, and fostering a
supportive work environment. Regular check-ins and open lines of communication help address
concerns early and provide opportunities for team members to offer suggestions or seek help
when needed.

15. What do you consider the most common mistake that software engineers
make?

One common mistake I’ve observed is underestimating the time required for integration and
testing phases. Engineers often focus on development but overlook the complexity that comes
with integrating systems and ensuring they work in all environments. I encourage my team to
allocate enough time for these phases to prevent last-minute rushes and unexpected delays.
16. How would you handle multiple competing deadlines with limited team
members?

In this situation, I would prioritize tasks based on their urgency and impact on the project’s
overall success. I would communicate with stakeholders to set realistic expectations and possibly
negotiate deadlines. Clear delegation of tasks, ensuring that team members are focused on the
most critical issues, helps in delivering results even under pressure.

17. How would you manage a team member who is not performing adequately?

I would address the situation by first understanding the root cause through a private
conversation. It could be a personal issue, workload, or lack of clarity on the task. I would
provide additional support, set clear expectations, and offer constructive feedback. If necessary, I
would adjust their workload or provide additional training to help them improve.

18. What is your strategy for managing client expectations?

My strategy is to set realistic expectations from the outset and communicate regularly with the
client about project progress, risks, and changes. Transparency is key to ensuring that clients
understand potential obstacles and timelines. When changes are requested, I provide clear
explanations of how they will affect the overall schedule and costs.

19. How directly involved are you as a software project leader?

I am very involved in the day-to-day management of the project, balancing both the technical
and administrative aspects. I ensure that the team has everything they need to succeed and am
often the point of contact for both the team and clients. My leadership style is hands-on, where I
lead by example and remain closely engaged with project progress.

20. What do you need from your employer in terms of support?

I value continuous learning and would appreciate access to further training or development
opportunities, particularly in advanced project management tools or methodologies.
Additionally, having the right resources, such as skilled team members and the latest software
tools, is essential to ensure project success.